FAA Orders Merit-Based Hiring at Airlines

Carriers could face a federal investigation if they do not comply.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 01:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Flight deck of an Airbus aircraft [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has mandated "merit-based hiring" for commercial pilots, requiring airlines to certify their selection process is exclusively based on experience and technical aptitude, framed as a reversal of Biden-era policies.
This directive, effective 30 days from February 13, requires Part 121 carriers to terminate any hiring practices based on race or sex, with non-compliance leading to federal investigation.
The move aligns with the current administration's efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, despite a lack of evidence that airlines are waiving pilot requirements and assurances from pilot unions that all pilots meet the same rigorous standards.

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In what it framed as a reversal of Biden-era policies, the FAA on Friday said it will require commercial airlines to commit to “merit-based hiring” for pilots.

The directive comes in the form of an “operations specification.” To comply, Part 121 carriers must certify that their hiring process for pilots is exclusively based on merit, as demonstrated by experience, technical aptitude, and other factors. The operations specification takes effect 30 days from February 13.